Image processing device, air treatment system, image processing program, and image processing method

ABSTRACT

An image processing device includes an estimator (54) configured to estimate a degree of fogging of image data on the basis of the image data, the image data having been acquired by an imaging device (41) capturing an image of an imaging target (T) disposed in a casing (25) of an air treatment device (10); and a determiner (55) configured to determine output image data on the basis of the degree of fogging of the image data estimated by the estimator (54), the output image data being image data to be output.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a Continuation of PCT International Application No.PCT/JP2021/018854 filed on May 18, 2021, which claims priority under 35U.S.C. § 119(a) to Patent Application No. 2020-120955 filed in Japan onJul. 14, 2020, all of which are hereby expressly incorporated byreference into the present application.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present disclosure relates to an image processing device, an airtreatment system, an image processing program, and an image processingmethod.

BACKGROUND ART

Patent Document 1 discloses an air treatment device configured toacquire image data of components in a casing, using an imaging device.The state of the components can be grasped by an operator, for example,by checking the image data acquired by the imaging device.

CITATION LIST Patent Document

Patent Document 1: Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 2019-39658

SUMMARY

A first aspect is directed to an image processing device, including: anestimator (54) configured to estimate a degree of fogging of image dataon the basis of the image data, the image data having been acquired byan imaging device (41) capturing an image of an imaging target (T)disposed in a casing (25) of an air treatment device (10); and adeterminer (55) configured to determine output image data on the basisof the degree of fogging of the image data estimated by the estimator(54), the output image data being image data to be output.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating a general configuration of an airtreatment system according to a first embodiment.

FIG. 2 is a piping system diagram illustrating an air conditioneraccording to the first embodiment.

FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating a plan view of an indoor unit accordingto the first embodiment.

FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating the inside of the indoor unit accordingto the first embodiment, as viewed from the front.

FIG. 5 is a table for explaining levels of the degree of fogging.

FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing operations of an imaging unit.

FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing basic operations of an image processor.

FIG. 8 is a flowchart of a determining process.

FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating the inside of the indoor unit accordingto a second embodiment, as viewed from the front.

FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating a vertical cross-sectional view of aninternal structure of an indoor unit according to a third embodiment.

FIG. 11 is a view of a first variation, being equivalent to FIG. 8 .

FIG. 12 is a view of a second variation, being equivalent to FIG. 1 .

DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

An embodiment of the present disclosure will be described below withreference to the drawings. The following embodiment is merely anexemplary one in nature, and is not intended to limit the scope,applications, or use of the present disclosure.

First Embodiment

An air treatment system (1) according to a first embodiment will bedescribed.

<General Configuration of Air Treatment System>

As illustrated in FIG. 1 , the air treatment system (1) of the firstembodiment includes an air conditioner (10), an imaging unit (40), and aserver (50). The imaging unit (40) and the server (50) are connected tothe Internet (N). A communication terminal (60) of an operator isconnected to the Internet (N). Examples of the operator include thosewho maintain the air conditioner (10), who manage the air conditioner(10), and who are a user of the air conditioner (10). Examples of thecommunication terminal (60) include a personal computer, a smartphone, atablet terminal, and a mobile phone.

According to the air treatment system (1) of the first embodiment, theimaging unit (40) captures an image of an imaging target (T) of the airconditioner (10). The image data acquired by the imaging unit (40) istransmitted to the server (50) via the Internet (N). The operator cancheck the image data outputted from the server (50) visually using thecommunication terminal (60).

<General Configuration of Air Conditioner>

The air conditioner (10) conditions air in an indoor space, which is atarget space. The air conditioner (10) adjusts the temperature of roomair (RA) in the indoor space. The air conditioner (10) suppliestemperature-adjusted air as supply air (SA) into the indoor space. Theair conditioner (10) performs a cooling operation and a heatingoperation.

As illustrated in FIG. 2 , the air conditioner (10) is of a multipletype. The air conditioner (10) includes an outdoor unit (11) and aplurality of indoor units (20). The air conditioner (10) may be of apair type including one outdoor unit (11) and one indoor unit (20). Theoutdoor unit (11) is installed in the outdoor space. The indoor units(20) are installed in the indoor space. More specifically, the indoorunits (20) are installed in a space behind a ceiling facing the indoorspace. The air conditioner (10) includes a refrigerant circuit (R). Therefrigerant circuit (R) is configured by connecting the outdoor unit(11) and the plurality of indoor units (20) via a connection pipe (C).

The refrigerant circuit (R) includes a refrigerant. The refrigerantcircuit (R) performs a vapor compression refrigeration cycle bycirculating the refrigerant. The refrigerant circuit (R) includes acompressor (12), an outdoor heat exchanger (13), an indoor expansionvalve (21), and an indoor heat exchanger (22). The refrigerant circuit(R) has a four-way switching valve (14) and an outdoor expansion valve(15).

The outdoor unit (11) is provided with the compressor (12), the outdoorheat exchanger (13), the four-way switching valve (14), and the outdoorexpansion valve (15). The outdoor unit (11) is provided with an outdoorfan (16). The compressor (12) compresses the refrigerant. The compressor(12) has an electric motor, the number of rotations of which isvariable. The outdoor heat exchanger (13) performs heat exchange betweenthe refrigerant and outdoor air. The outdoor expansion valve (15) is anelectronic expansion valve that decompresses the refrigerant. Theoutdoor fan (16) transfers the outdoor air passing through the outdoorheat exchanger (13).

The four-way switching valve (14) switches over between a first stateindicated by the solid curves in FIG. 2 and a second state indicated bythe broken curves in FIG. 2 . The four-way switching valve (14) in thefirst state makes a discharge portion of the compressor (12) and a gasend of the outdoor heat exchanger (13) communicate with each other, andmakes a suction portion of the compressor (12) and a gas end of theindoor heat exchanger (22) communicate with each other. The four-wayswitching valve (14) in the second state makes the discharge side of thecompressor (12) and the gas end of the indoor heat exchanger (22)communicate with each other, and makes the suction side of thecompressor (12) and the gas end of the outdoor heat exchanger (13)communicate with each other.

Each of the indoor unit (20) is provided with the indoor expansion valve(21) and the indoor heat exchanger (22). The indoor unit (20) isprovided with an indoor fan (23). The indoor expansion valve (21) is anelectronic expansion valve that decompresses the refrigerant. The indoorfan (23) transfers room air passing through the indoor heat exchanger(22).

<Indoor Unit>

A configuration of the indoor unit (20) will be described with referenceto FIGS. 3 and 4 . In the following description, the terms “front,”“rear,” “right,” “left,” “upper,” and “lower” are based on a case wherea front panel (25 a) of a casing (25) is viewed from the front.

The indoor unit (20) includes a casing (25), the indoor fan (23), anindoor heat exchanger (22), a tray (26), and a pump (27). The casing(25) is installed behind the ceiling. The indoor fan (23), the indoorheat exchanger (22), the tray (26) and the pump (27) are disposed insidethe casing (25).

<Casing>

The casing (25) has a shape of a rectangular parallelepiped hollow box.The casing (25) has an intake port (28) in a right-side panel (25 b)thereof. The intake port (28) is connected with a suction duct (notshown). An inflow end of the suction duct communicates with the indoorspace. The casing (25) has a blow-out port (29) in a left-side panel (25c) thereof. The blow-out port (29) is connected with a blow-out duct(not shown). An outflow end of the blow-out duct communicates with theindoor space.

An air flow path (30) is formed in the casing (25) from the intake port(28) to the blow-out port (29). The indoor fan (23) and the indoor heatexchanger (22) are disposed in the air flow path (30).

The front panel (25 a) of the casing (25) faces a maintenance space. Themaintenance space is a workspace. An inspection hole (31) is formed inthe front panel (25 a). An inspection cover (32) is detachably attachedto the inspection hole (31).

The tray (26) and the pump (27) are disposed behind the inspection hole(31). The tray (26) and the pump (27) are exposable to the outside ofthe casing (25) through the inspection hole (31).

<Indoor Fan>

The indoor fan (23) is disposed upstream of the indoor heat exchanger(22) in the air flow path (30). The indoor fan (23) corresponds to a fanof the present disclosure. The indoor fan (23) is a sirocco fan. Theindoor fan (23) transfers air in the air flow path (30).

<Indoor Heat Exchanger>

The indoor heat exchanger (22) is a fin-and-tube heat exchanger. Theindoor heat exchanger (22) is an air heat exchanger that allows heatexchange between the air in the air flow path (30) and the refrigerant.The indoor heat exchanger (22) is disposed with longitudinal directionof fins tilted (see FIG. 4 ).

Folded portions of a heat transfer tube (not shown) of the indoor heatexchanger (22) and a flow divider (not shown) connected to the indoorheat exchanger (22) are disposed in a first space (S1) to be describedin detail later.

<Tray>

The tray (26) is disposed below the indoor heat exchanger (22). The tray(26) is a pan that is open upward. The tray (26) receives condensedwater generated in the vicinity of the indoor heat exchanger (22). Thetray (26) is a component in the casing (25). The tray (26) is an imagingtarget (T) of a camera (41). The tray (26) is made of a resin material.

<Pump>

The pump (27) is disposed in the tray (26). The pump (27) is used todischarge water in the tray (26). A drain pipe (27 a) is connected to anupper portion of the pump (27). The water sucked into the pump (27) isdischarged to the outside of the casing (25) via the drain pipe (27 a).The pump (27) is a component in the casing (25). The pump (27) is animaging target (T) of the camera (41).

<Partition>

The indoor unit (20) has a partition that defines a front space (S1). Asillustrated in FIGS. 3 and 4 , the partition includes a first partitionplate (25 d), a second partition plate (25 e), and a third partitionplate (25 f).

The first partition plate (25 d) extends from the front panel (25 a) ofthe casing (25) along the right edge of the indoor heat exchanger (22).In other words, the first partition plate (25 d) extends across the airflow path (30) from the front panel (25 a) of the casing (25). The firstpartition plate (25 d) extends from the bottom plate to the top panel ofthe casing (25).

The second partition plate (25 e) covers a front side of a space (adownstream-side air flow path (30 b)) on the downstream side (the leftside in FIG. 4 ) of the indoor heat exchanger (22) in the air flow path(30). The second partition plate (25 e) has a substantially rectangularshape. The second partition plate (25 e) extends from the bottom plateto the top panel of the casing (25). The second partition plate (25 e)is substantially flash with the front end of the indoor heat exchanger(22). The second partition plate (25 e) separates the downstream-sideair flow path (30 b) and the front space (S1) from each other.

A space (an upstream-side air flow path (30 a)) on the upstream side(the right side in FIG. 4 ) of the indoor heat exchanger (22) in the airflow path (30) is not covered with a partition. The upstream-side airflow path (30 a) and the front space (S1) therefore communicate witheach other.

The third partition plate (25 f) is provided on the left-side panel (25c) of the casing (25). The third partition plate (25 f) is closer to thefront than the blow-out port (29).

The front space (S1) is defined by the first partition plate (25 d), thesecond partition plate (25 e), and the third partition plate (25 f). Thefront space (S1) is a first space different from the air flow path (30).The front space (S1) communicates with the upstream-side air flow path(30 a) of the air flow path (30) and is blocked from the downstream-sideair flow path (30 b). Air in the upstream-side air flow path (30 a)flows into the front space (S1). However, air tends to remain in thefront space (S1) more than in the air flow path (30).

<Electric Component Box>

As illustrated in FIG. 3 , an electric component box (33) is disposednear the front panel (25 a) in the casing (25). The electric componentbox (33) houses therein a control board (34) for the air conditioner(10).

<Air-Conditioning Control Unit>

As illustrated in FIG. 1 , the indoor unit (20) has an air-conditioningcontrol unit (35). The air-conditioning control unit (35) includes amicrocomputer and a memory device which are mounted on the control board(34). The memory device stores software for operating the microcomputer.The air-conditioning control unit (35) controls constituent componentsof the air conditioner (10).

<General Configuration of Imaging Unit>

As illustrated in FIG. 1 , the imaging unit (40) includes the camera(41) and an imaging control unit (45). The camera (41) corresponds to animaging device of the present disclosure. The imaging unit (40) isinstalled in a space behind the ceiling together with the indoor unit(20).

<Camera>

The camera (41) acquires image data of the imaging target (T). Thecamera (41) is disposed in the casing (25). Specifically, the camera(41) is disposed in the front space (S1). The camera (41) is disposedbetween the inspection cover (32) and the indoor heat exchanger (22),when viewed from above. The camera (41) is supported to the back surfaceof the inspection cover (32) via a stay (44). As illustrated in FIG. 4 ,the camera (41) includes a lens (42) and a light source (43). The lens(42) is a super-wide-angle lens. The lens (42) of the camera (41) facesdiagonally down so as to be directed to a bottom surface (26 a) of thetray (26). Specifically, the lens of the camera (41) is directed to arecess (26 b) formed in the bottom surface of the tray (26) so as tocorrespond to an intake portion of the pump (27).

The light source (43) illuminates an imaging target (T). Specifically,the light source (43) illuminates an imaging target (T) when the camera(41) captures an image of the imaging target (T). Thus, the camera (41)can acquire image data of the imaging target (T) at the timing when theimaging target (T) is illuminated by the light source (43). The lightsource (43) may be separate from the camera (41).

<Imaging Control Unit>

The imaging control unit (45) includes a microcomputer and a memorydevice. The memory device stores software for operating themicrocomputer. The imaging control unit (45) controls the camera (41)and the light source (43). In other words, the imaging control unit (45)supplies power for operating the camera (41) and the light source (43)to the camera (41) and the light source (43). The imaging control unit(45) includes a timer (45 a) and a first communication section (46).

The timer (45 a) is set to the timing at which the camera (41) performsthe image capturing. A setting time of the timer (45 a) includes atleast one of time or a time interval. In this embodiment, the timer (45a) is set to such a setting time that the camera (41) performs the imagecapturing at a set time (for example, around noon) once a week. Theimaging timer (45 a) is separate from the imaging control unit (45).

The first communication section (46) is connected to the camera (41) viaa wired or wireless communication line. The first communication section(46) receives the image data acquired by the camera (41). The firstcommunication section (46) is connected to the Internet (N) via acommunication line using long term evolution (LTE). The firstcommunication section (46) outputs the image data to the server (50) viathe Internet (N). The first communication section (46) may be connectedto the Internet (N) via a wireless router.

<General Configuration of Server>

The server (50) is hosted on the cloud of the Internet (N). The server(50) has a storage (52) and a second communication section (53). In thisembodiment, the server (50) corresponds to an image processing device ofthe present disclosure.

The second communication section (53) includes a receiving sectionconfigured to receive the image data transmitted from the imaging unit(40). The second communication section (53) includes a transmittingsection configured to transmit output image data to the communicationterminal (60), which will be described later in detail.

The storage (52) stores the image data received in the secondcommunication section (53). The storage (52) includes at least one of ahard disk drive (HDD), a random access memory (RAM), and a solid statedrive (SSD).

<Details of Server>

The server (50) includes a microcomputer and a memory device. The memorydevice stores software for operating the microcomputer.

The server (50) includes, as functional elements, an estimator (54), adeterminer (55), an instructor (56), and a notifier (57). In otherwords, the server (50) functions as the estimator (54), the determiner(55), the instructor (56), or the notifier (57) by running a programstored in the memory device.

The program stored in the server (50) corresponds to an image processingprogram of the present disclosure. The program causes the server (50) asa computer to perform a first process and a second process. The firstprocess estimates a degree of fogging in the image data on the basis ofthe image data acquired by the camera (41) by capturing the image of theimaging target (T) inside the casing (25) of the air treatment device(10). The second process determines the output image data on the basisof the degree of fogging of the image data estimated. The output imagedata is image data to be output.

<Estimator>

The estimator (54) is configured to estimate the degree of fogging inthe image data on the basis of the image data acquired by the camera(41). Here, the term “degree of fogging” is an indicator indicating howmuch the image data is fogged up due to mists inside the casing (25). Ahigher degree of fogging indicates that the image data is unclearer. Alower degree of fogging indicates that the image data is clearer.

The estimator (54) includes an estimation model (M), which hasmachine-learned to be capable of estimating the degree of fogging of theimage data. The estimator (54) estimates the degree of fogging of theimage data by use of the estimation model (M) machine-learned.

The estimation model (M) is configured as a multilayered neural network,which has obtained a classification function through the machinelearning. The estimation model (M) of this embodiment is generatedthrough “supervised learning”. The neural network for generating theestimation model (M) learns, using training data and discriminantfunction. The training data is a data set of pairs of input data andteaching data corresponding thereto.

As the input data, image data of the imaging target (T) acquired by thecamera (41) is used. As the teaching data, a set of labels correspondingsuch image data is used. The labels indicate the degree of fogging ofthe image data. In this embodiment, the labels are for indicating fourlevels of the degree of fogging (see FIG. 5 ).

Level 0 is a level at which there is no fogging or substantially nofogging. Level 1 is a level at which there is fogging, but the foggingis not so severe that will hinder the inspection of the imaging target(T) on the basis of the image data by an operator. Level 2 is a level atwhich there is fogging and the fogging is so severe that will hinder theinspection of the imaging target (T) on the basis of the image data byan operator. Level 3 is a level at which there is fogging and thefogging is so severe that the inspection of the imaging target on thebasis of the image data by an operator is difficult.

The estimation model (M) is generated through such “supervised learning”of the neural network by using the training data.

The estimation model (M) may be generated by “unsupervised learning.” Inthis case, the neural network repeats learning operations for clusteringto group pieces of input data into plural classes in such a way thatpieces of input data (image data) similar to each other are grouped intothe same class. This allows generation of the estimation model (M)without using teaching data.

<Determiner>

The determiner (55) determines the output image data on the basis of thedegree of fogging estimated by use of the estimation model (M). Theoutput image data is the image data to be output. More specifically, thedeterminer (55) determines the output image data based on the degree offogging estimated by use of the estimation model (M), and on the numberof times of image capturing (n) performed by the camera (41). Here, thenumber of times of image capturing (n) is the number of times of imagecapturing (n) performed by the camera (41) to capture images of theimaging target (T) within a time period from the setting time of thetimer (45 a) to the determining of the output image data (this timeperiod may be referred to as determination period hereinafter). Theoutput image data determined by the determiner (55) is transmitted tothe communication terminal (60) from the second communication section(53).

<Instructor>

The instructor (56) outputs a first instruction according to the imagedata estimated by use of the estimation model (M). The first instructioninstructs the camera (41) to capture an image of the imaging target (T).If the degree of fogging of the image data estimated by the estimator(54) is higher than a predetermined level, the instructor (56) outputsthe first instruction. If the degree of fogging of the image dataestimated by the estimator (54) is higher than a predetermined level,the instructor (56) outputs the first instruction after a predeterminedperiod (which may be referred to as a waiting time hereinafter) haselapsed.

The waiting time may be preferably 5 min or longer, but not longer than23 hours. The waiting time is a set value that may be changed by theoperator or the like as appropriate.

The first instruction is received by the first communication section(46) of the imaging unit (40) via the Internet (N). After receiving thefirst instruction, the imaging control unit (45) causes the camera (41)to perform the image capturing.

<Notifier>

If the number of times of image capturing (n) performed by the camera(41) exceeds a predetermined number of times, the notifier (57) notifiesof abnormality. More specifically, if the number of times of imagecapturing (n) performed by the camera (41) exceeds a predeterminednumber of times, the notifier (57) causes the second communicationsection (53) to transmit a signal indicative of abnormality to thecommunication terminal (60). The operator can be notified on thecommunication terminal (60) that the normal image capturing has beenfailed due to some abnormality.

<Communication Terminal>

The communication terminal (60) is a terminal, which the operatoroperates. The communication terminal (60) has a third communicationsection (61), a display (62), and an operation unit (63).

The third communication section (61) includes a receiving sectionconfigured to receive the output image data transmitted from the server(50). The third communication section (61) includes a transmittingsection configured to transmit an instruction for instructing the server(50) to output the output image data. The third communication section(61) includes the receiving section configured to receive an abnormalsignal transmitted from the server (50).

The display (62) is configured as, for example, a liquid crystalmonitor. The display (62) displays thereon the image data of the imagingtarget (T). More specifically, the image data outputted from the server(50) is displayed on the display (62).

The operation unit (63) is a keyboard, a touch panel, or the like. Usingthe operation unit (63), the operator operates application softwarestored in the communication terminal (60). Through the operation of theapplication software, the transmitting the instruction instructing theserver (50) to output the output image data, and the displaying theimage data on the display (62) can be performed.

The communication terminal (60) notifies the operator of the occurrenceof abnormality on the basis of the abnormal signal transmitted from theserver (50). More specifically, the communication terminal (60) notifiesthe operator of the occurrence of abnormality by displaying on thedisplay (62) a sign indicative of occurrence of abnormality, or byemitting sound or light indicative of occurrence of abnormality.

—Operation—

An operation of the air conditioner (10) according to the firstembodiment will be described. The air conditioner (10) performs acooling operation and a heating operation.

<Cooling Operation>

In the cooling operation, the four-way switching valve (14) is in thefirst state. The refrigerant compressed in the compressor (12) releasesheat (condenses) in the outdoor heat exchanger (13) and is decompressedby the indoor expansion valve (21). The decompressed refrigerantevaporates in the indoor heat exchanger (22) and is compressed again inthe compressor (12).

When the indoor fan (23) is operated, room air (RA) is sucked into theair flow path (30) through the intake port (28). The air in the air flowpath (30) passes through the indoor heat exchanger (22). In the indoorheat exchanger (22), the air is cooled by the evaporating refrigerant.The cooled air passes through the blow-out port (29), and is thensupplied as supply air (SA) to the indoor space.

If the air is cooled to a temperature equal to or lower than the dewpoint in the indoor heat exchanger (22), moisture in the air condenses.The tray (26) receives this condensed water. The condensed waterreceived by the tray (26) is discharged to the outside of the casing(25) by the pump (27).

In the cooling operation, the air-conditioning control unit (35)controls the evaporation temperature of the indoor heat exchanger (22)so that the indoor temperature approaches a target temperature. Theindoor temperature is detected by a temperature sensor provided, forexample, at the intake port (28). The target temperature is determinedbased on a set temperature set by a user, for example, with remotecontrol. The evaporation temperature is worked out from values detectedby the refrigerant temperature sensor and the refrigerant pressuresensor.

<Heating Operation>

In the heating operation, the four-way switching valve (14) is in thesecond state. The refrigerant compressed in the compressor (12) releasesheat (condenses) in the indoor heat exchanger (22) and is decompressedby the outdoor expansion valve (15). The decompressed refrigerantevaporates in the outdoor heat exchanger (13) and is compressed again inthe compressor (12).

When the indoor fan (23) is operated, room air (RA) is sucked into theair flow path (30) through the intake port (28). The air in the air flowpath (30) passes through the indoor heat exchanger (22). In the indoorheat exchanger (22), the air is heated by the refrigerant releasingheat. The heated air is then supplied to the indoor space as supply air(SA) through the blow-out port (29).

In the heating operation, the air-conditioning control unit (35)controls the condensation temperature of the indoor heat exchanger (22)so that the indoor temperature approaches a target temperature. Thecondensation temperature is obtained from values detected by therefrigerant temperature sensor and the refrigerant pressure sensor.

<Generation of Mists in Casing>

Mists would generate inside the casing (25) depending on the state ofthe indoor unit (20). Conditions where mists are generated will beillustrated below.

1) The air inside the casing (25) is cooled to the dew point or below bythe indoor heat exchanger (22). In this case, moisture in the aircondenses, and mists are generated in the casing (25).

Specific examples where Condition 1) is met include:

1a) immediately after the end of a cooling operation; 1b) immediatelyafter the start of a cooling operation; 1c) when the user suddenly dropsthe set temperature for a cooling operation; 1d) when an oil returnoperation is performed; and 1e) when a reverse cycle defrostingoperation is performed.

Regarding 1a), the indoor fan (23) stops when the cooling operationends. If air in the indoor space is taken into the casing (25) in thisstate, the air would be cooled to a temperature equal to or lower thanthe dew point by the indoor heat exchanger (22) serving as anevaporator. The air tends to be cooled to a temperature equal to orlower than the dew point by the indoor heat exchanger (22) particularlywhen a pump-down operation is performed at the end of the coolingoperation. The pump-down operation used herein refers to an operation inwhich the compressor (12) is driven for a predetermined period in orderto draw out the refrigerant accumulated in the indoor heat exchanger(22). The pressure of the refrigerant in the indoor heat exchanger (22)drops steeply with the pump-down operation. When the temperature in theindoor heat exchanger (22) drops with this pressure drop of therefrigerant, the air in the casing (25) tends to be cooled to atemperature equal to or lower than the dew point.

Regarding 1b), the temperature of the indoor heat exchanger (22) servingas an evaporator drops steeply, immediately after the start of thecooling operation. Thus, the air tends to be cooled to a temperatureequal to or lower than the dew point.

Regarding 1c), the evaporation temperature of the indoor heat exchanger(22) drops abruptly when the user lowers the set temperature abruptly.Thus, the air tends to be cooled to a temperature equal to or lower thanthe dew point.

Regarding 1d), the oil return operation refers to an operation ofincreasing the number of rotations of the compressor (12) to return oilaccumulated in the indoor heat exchanger (22) to the compressor (12).The evaporation temperature of the indoor heat exchanger (22) is loweredif the number of rotations of the compressor (12) is increased. Thus,the air tends to be cooled to a temperature equal to or lower than thedew point.

Regarding 1e), the reverse cycle defrosting operation is performedduring a heating operation in winter, for example. The reverse cycledefrosting operation refers to an operation for defrosting the outdoorheat exchanger (13). In the reverse cycle defrosting operation,similarly to the cooling operation, a refrigeration cycle is performedin which the refrigerant compressed in the compressor (12) releases heatand condenses in the outdoor heat exchanger (13) and evaporates in theindoor heat exchanger (22). When the indoor heat exchanger (22) servingas a condenser in the heating operation turns to function as anevaporator in the reverse cycle defrosting operation, the air tends tobe cooled to a temperature equal to or lower than the dew point.

2) When relatively low temperature air in the casing (25) is mixed withrelatively high temperature air entering the casing (25) from the indoorspace. In this case, the air that has entered the casing (25) from theindoor space is cooled to a temperature equal to or lower than the dewpoint by the low temperature air, thereby generating mists. The air inthe casing (25) is cooled in the indoor heat exchanger (22) and is alsocooled by low temperature water accumulated in the tray (26), causing adrop of the temperature of the air in the casing (25).

Further, if the above-mentioned conditions 1a), 1b), 1c), 1d), and 1e)are met, the temperature of the indoor heat exchanger (22) and/or thetemperature of the water accumulated in the tray (26) drop. As a result,the temperature of air in the casing (25) easily drops.

3) When relatively high temperature air in the casing (25) is cooled byrelatively low temperature air in the indoor space to a temperatureequal to or lower than the dew point. In this case, moisture in the aircondenses, and mists are generated in the casing (25). During a heatingoperation or after the end of the heating operation, for example, thetemperature of air in the casing (25) is relatively high. The condition3) is met in this state if relatively low temperature air enters theindoor space and subsequently the relatively low temperature air istaken into the casing (25). If the indoor unit (20) is installed at alower portion of the indoor space (e.g., floor standing type), cold airtends to come into the casing due to convection of heat.

<Operations of Imaging Unit, Server, and Communication Terminal>

The image data captured by the camera (41) may be fogged due to mistsgenerated in the casing (25) as described above. In the firstembodiment, in particular, the camera (41) and the imaging target (T)are disposed in the front space (S1) that is separated from the air flowpath (30). Mists tend to remain in the front space (S1) since not asmuch air as in the air flow path (30) flows in the front space (S1).

The operator cannot inspect the imaging target (T) well if the imagedata is unclear due to the generation of mists. Therefore, the airtreatment system (1) is configured to perform the following operation inorder to reduce cases that the image data acquired is unclear.

<Operation of Imaging Unit>

As illustrated in FIG. 6 , if the setting time set in the timer (45 a)of the imaging unit (40) reaches (YES at Step ST1), the imaging controlunit (45) causes the camera (41) and the light source (43) to operate.As a result, the camera (41) captures an image of an imaging target (T),thereby acquiring image data of the imaging target (T) (Step ST2). Next,the first communication section (46) of the imaging unit (40) transmitsto the server (50) the image data acquired (Step ST3). The image data isreceived by the second communication section (53) of the server (50) viathe Internet.

After that, if the imaging unit (40) receives a first instruction (whichwill be described in detail later) transmitted from the server (50) (YESat Step ST4), the camera (41) of the imaging unit (40) captures an imageof the imaging target (T) again (Step ST5). Again, the firstcommunication section (46) of the imaging unit (40) transmits to theserver (50) the image data acquired (Step ST6).

<Basic Operation of Server>

As illustrated in FIG. 7 , the server (50) receives the image datatransmitted from the imaging unit (40) (Step ST11). Then, the server(50) stores the received image data in the storage (52) (Step ST12).

Then, the estimator (54) estimates the degree of fogging of the imagedata stored in the storage (52) (Step ST13) More specifically, theestimator (54) estimates the degree of fogging of the image data by useof the estimation model (M) generated by the machine learning. Theestimation model (M) determines the level of the degree of fogging ofthe image data from among levels 0 to 3 listed in FIG. 5 . The estimator(54) associates the level of the degree of fogging of the image dataestimated by use of the estimation model (M) with the image data inquestion.

Next, in a determining process of performing the determining process(Step ST14), which will be described in detail later, the server (50)determines the output image data on the basis of the degree of foggingof the image data.

After that, when the server (50) receives a command from thecommunication terminal (60) (YES in Step ST15), the output image data istransmitted to the communication terminal (60) (Step ST16). The outputimage data is received by the communication terminal (60). The operatorchecks the output image data on the display (62). Thus, the operator caninspect the imaging target (T) via the communication terminal (60).

<Determining Process>

The determining process at Step ST14 in FIG. 7 will be described hereinin detail, referring to FIG. 8 . The determining process determines theoutput image data from one or more pieces of image data acquired withinthe determination period.

In the following, the determining process is described as to how thedetermine process is performed in each case of the levels of the degreeof fogging of the image data. In the following description, image dataof an image captured at the setting time of the timer (45 a) will bereferred to as “image data 1,” image data of an image captured at afirst time after the setting time as instructed by the first instructionwill be referred to as “image data 2,” and image data of an imagecaptured at a second time after the setting time as instructed by thefirst instruction will be referred to as “image data 3.” In thefollowing description, the “level of the degree of fogging” will besimply referred to as “degree of fogging.”

(1) The Degree of Fogging of the Image Data 1 is Level 0.

In the case where the degree of fogging of the image data 1 is level 1,neither the condition of Step ST31 (the degree of fogging of image datais level 3), the condition of Step ST32 (the degree of fogging of imagedata is level 2), nor the condition of Step ST33 (the degree of foggingof image data is level 1) is met. In this case, in Step ST34, thedeterminer (55) determines, as the output image data, the image data 1whose degree of fogging is level 0. The image data 1 whose degree offogging is level 0 has no fogging or substantially no fogging.Therefore, the operator can sufficiently inspect the imaging target (T)on the basis of the image data 1.

(2) The Degree of Fogging of the Image Data 1 is Level 1.

In the case where degree of fogging of the image data 1 is level 1, theconditions of Step ST31 and Step ST32 are not met, but the condition ofStep ST33 is met. In this case, the process proceeds to Step ST39.Because the number of times of image capturing (n=1) is equal to apredetermined value A (=1), the condition of Step ST39 is met. After thepredetermined waiting time has elapsed (YES at Step ST41), theinstructor (56) outputs the first instruction (Step ST43). After theimaging unit (40) receives the first instruction (YES at Step ST4 inFIG. 6 ), the camera (41) captures an image of imaging target (T) (StepST5). Next, the imaging unit (40) transmits the image data 2 to theserver (50) (Step ST6).

The server (50) stores the received image data 2 in the storage (52)(Step ST11 and Step ST12 in FIG. 7 ) and, after that, estimates thedegree of fogging of the image data 2 (Step ST13). Next, the determiningprocess is performed (Step ST14). The following will describe furtherbranched processes performed thereafter in the case where the degree offogging of the image data is level 1.

(2-1) The Degree of Fogging of the Image Data 2 is Level 0.

In the case where the degree of fogging of the image data 2 is level 0after the process described in (2) above, the process goes through StepST31, Step ST32, and Step ST33, and proceeds to Step ST34. At Step ST34,the determiner (55) determines, as the output image data, the image data2 whose degree of fogging is level 0.

(2-2) The Degree of Fogging of the Image Data 2 is Level 1.

In the case where the degree of fogging of the image data 2 is level 1after the process described in (2) above, the number of times of imagecapturing (n=2) is greater than the predetermined value A (=1) at StepST39. Thus, the condition of Step ST39 is not met, and accordingly theprocess proceeds to Step ST42. At Step ST42, the determiner (55)determines, as the output image data, a piece of image data with thelowest degree of fogging from among the pieces of image data acquiredwithin the determination period. In this example, the degree of foggingof the image data 1 is level 1 and the degree of fogging of the imagedata 2 is level 1, and therefore the image data 1 and/or the image data2 is determined as the output image data. The degree of fogging 1 is thelevel in which there is fogging, but the fogging is not so severe thatthe fogging will hinder the inspection. Thus, the operator can inspectthe imaging target (T) on the basis of the image data 1.

(2-3) The Degree of Fogging of the Image Data 2 is Level 2.

If the degree of fogging of the image data 2 is level 2 after theprocess described in (2) above, the condition of Step ST32 is met andthe process proceeds to Step ST36. At Step ST36, the determiner (55)determines whether there is a piece of image data whose degree offogging is 1 or lower from among one or more pieces of image dataacquired after the setting time. In this example, the degree of foggingof the image data 1 is level 1 and the degree of fogging of the imagedata 2 is level 2, and therefore the condition of Step ST36 is met.Next, the process goes through Step ST39 and proceeds to Step ST42. AtStep ST42, the determiner (55) determines, as the output image data, theimage data 1 which is the piece of image data with the lowest degree offogging.

(2-4) The Degree of Fogging of the Image Data 2 is Level 3.

If the degree of fogging of the image data 2 is level 3 after theprocess described in (2) above, the condition of Step ST31 is met andthe process proceeds to Step ST35. At Step ST35, the determiner (55)determines whether there is a piece of image data whose degree offogging is 2 or lower from among one or more pieces of image dataacquired after the setting time. In this example, the degree of foggingof the image data 1 is level 1 and the degree of fogging of the imagedata 2 is level 3, and therefore the condition of Step ST35 is met.Next, the process goes through Step ST36 and Step ST39, and proceeds toStep ST42. At Step ST42, the determiner (55) determines, as the outputimage data, the piece of image data with the lowest degree of fogging.

(3) The Degree of Fogging of the Image Data 1 is Level 2.

In the case where the degree of fogging of the image data 1 is level 2,the process goes through Step ST31 and Step ST32, and proceeds to StepST36. In this example, the condition of Step ST36 is not met, andtherefore the process proceeds to Step ST38. Because the number of timesof image capturing (n=1) is lower than a predetermined value B (=2), theprocess proceeds to Step ST41. After the predetermined waiting time haselapsed (YES at Step ST41), the instructor (56) outputs the firstinstruction (Step ST43). As a result, the camera (41) acquires imagedata of the imaging target (T) again, and the estimator (54) estimatesthe degree of fogging of the image data. The following will describefurther branched processes performed thereafter in the case where thedegree of fogging of the image data is level 2.

(3-1) The Degree of Fogging of the Image Data 2 is Level 0.

If the degree of fogging of the image data 2 is level 0 after theprocess described in (3) above, a process similar to that described in(2-1) above is performed. At Step ST34, the determiner (55) determines,as the output image data, the image data whose degree of fogging islevel 0.

(3-2) The Degree of Fogging of the Image Data 2 is Level 1.

If the degree of fogging of the image data 2 is level 1 after theprocess described in (3) above, a process similar to that described in(2-2) above is performed. At Step ST42, the determiner (55) determines,as the output image data, the piece of image data with the lowest degreeof fogging.

(3-3) The Degree of Fogging of the Image Data 2 is Level 2.

If the degree of fogging of the image data 2 is level 2 after theprocess described in (3) above, the process goes through Step ST31, StepST32, and Step ST36, and proceeds to Step T38. Because the number oftimes of image capturing (n=2) is equal to the predetermined value B(=2), the condition of Step ST38 is met and the process proceeds to theStep ST41. After the predetermined waiting time has elapsed (YES at StepST41), the instructor (56) outputs the first instruction (Step ST43).The following will describe further branched processes performedthereafter in the case where the degree of fogging of the image data islevel 1.

(3-3-1) If the degree of fogging of the image data 3 is 0 after theprocess described in (3-3) above, the process proceeds to Step ST34. Thedeterminer (55) determines, as the output image data, the image data tobe utilized for the inspection.

(3-3-2) If the degree of fogging of the image data 3 is level 1 afterthe process described in (3-3) above, the process proceeds to Step ST42.The determiner (55) determines, as the output image data, the piece ofimage data with the lowest degree of fogging.

(3-3-3) If the degree of fogging of the image data 3 is level 2 afterthe process described in (3-3) above, the number of times of imagecapturing (n=3) is greater than the predetermined value B (=2) at StepST38. Thus, the condition of Step ST38 is not met, and therefore theprocess proceeds to Step ST40. At Step ST40, the notifier (57) causesthe second communication section (53) to output the abnormal signal.

As such, in this example, if the number of times of image capturing (n)exceeds the predetermined number of times (3 times) and the degree offogging of the image data is not equal to or lower than the secondlowest predetermined level (level 1), the notifier (57) causes theoutput of the signal for notifying of the occurrence of abnormality.This allows the operator to know, based on the abnormal signal receivedby the communication terminal (60), that normal image capturing has beenfailed due to some abnormality.

After the output of the abnormal signal at Step ST41, the processproceeds to the Step ST42. At Step ST42, the determiner (55) determines,as the output image data, the piece of image data with the lowest degreeof fogging.

(3-3-4) If the degree of fogging of the image data 3 is level 3 afterthe process described in (3-3) above, the process goes through Step ST31and Step ST35, and proceeds to Step ST37. Because the number of times ofimage capturing (n=3) is greater than a predetermined value C (=2), thecondition of Step ST37 is not met, and, therefore, the process proceedsto Step ST40. The process thereafter is the same as the one described in(3-3-3) above.

(3-4) The Degree of Fogging of the Image Data 2 is Level 3.

If the degree of fogging of the image data 2 is level 3 after theprocess described in (3) above, the process goes through Step ST31 andStep ST35, and proceeds to Step ST37. Because the number of times ofimage capturing (n=2) is equal to the predetermined value C (=2), thecondition of Step ST37 is met. After the predetermined waiting time haselapsed (YES at Step ST41), the instructor (56) outputs the firstinstruction (Step ST43). The explanation of the process thereafter isnot repeated here.

(4) The Degree of Fogging of the Image Data 1 is Level 3.

If the degree of fogging of the image data 1 is level 3, the processgoes through Step ST31 and Step ST35, and proceeds to Step ST37. Becausethe number of times of image capturing (n=1) is lower than thepredetermined value C (=2), the condition of Step ST37 is met. After thepredetermined waiting time has elapsed (YES at Step ST41), theinstructor (56) outputs the first instruction (Step ST43). Theexplanation of the process thereafter is not repeated here.

The predetermined values A, B, and C are not limited to the valuesdescribed above, and may be set arbitrarily as long as A≤B≤C. The numberof times of image capturing performed by the imaging device (41) ischanged according to the predetermined values A, B, and C, and thischange changes the number of times the communication of the image datais performed. Therefore, the predetermined values may be determined asappropriate, taking communication cost of the image data intoconsideration.

<Program>

The program installed on the server (50), which is a computer, causesthe server (50) to execute Step ST11 to Step ST16 illustrated in FIG. 7. In this way, an image processing device and an image processing methodof the present disclosure can be realized.

Effect of First Embodiment

The determiner (55) determines the output image data on the basis of thedegree of fogging estimated by the estimator (54). This configurationallows to reduce such cases that unclear image data, which has beencaused due to mists in the casing (25), is output as the output imagedata. As a result, it becomes possible to reduce such cases that suchunclear image data is output to the communication terminal (60), therebyreducing such cases that the operator cannot inspect the imaging target(T). This can reduce such cases that the transmission of such unclearimage data adds to the volume of the communication data.

The determiner (55) determines, as the output image data, the image datawhose degree of fogging is equal to or less than a predetermined level(which is level 1 in this example). This makes it possible toselectively output relatively clear image data as the output image data.

The degree of fogging is three- or more-leveled, and the determiner (55)determines, as the output image data, a piece of image data with thelowest degree of fogging (the degree of fogging is level 0) from amongthe three- or more leveled degree of fogging. This makes it possible toselectively output, as the output image data, the clearest piece of theimage data from among the pieces of image data acquired by the camera(41).

If the degree of fogging of the image data is higher than apredetermined level, the instructor (56) outputs the first instructioninstructing the camera (41) to take an image of the imaging target (T).This makes it possible that the image data of the imaging target (T) canbe reacquired if the pieces of image data having been acquired are allunclear.

If the degree of fogging of the image data is higher than thepredetermined level, the instructor (56) outputs the first instructionafter the predetermined waiting time has elapsed. It can be expectedthat mists inside the casing (25) will reduce over time. Thus, theconfiguration in which the camera (41) is caused to capture an image ofthe imaging target (T) after the predetermined waiting time has elapsedallows acquisition of image data with a low degree of fogging.

If the waiting time is too short, there is a possibility that thereduction of the mists inside the casing (25) would not occur. With thewaiting time of 5 min or longer, it is possible to acquire image data ofthe imaging target (T) captured when the mists reduce. If the waitingtime is too long, updating intervals of the output image data would belong. With the waiting time of 23 hours, the updating intervals of theoutput image data can be shortened.

When the waiting time is 24 hours, this would possibly cause thefollowing defects. Taking this into consideration, the waiting time is23 hours.

As described above, the mists are influenced by the operation states ofthe air conditioner (10). For example, assume that the air conditioner(10) is under such timer control that the air conditioner (10) startsthe cooling operation at a predetermined time (9:00 AM) every day. Inthis case, if the first acquisition of the image data is set to sometime past 9:00 AM, the image capturing by the camera (41) is carried outright after the start of the cooling operation. As described above, themists are likely to be generated inside the casing (25) right after thestart of the cooling operation. Therefore, if the acquisition of theimage data is carried out at this time, the image data acquired is highin degree of fogging, which leads to the output of the first instructionand the redoing of the image capturing by the camera (41). In this case,if the waiting time is 24 hours, the next image capturing by the camera(41) will be carried out at the some time past 9:00 AM the next day. Asa result, the redoing of the image capturing by the camera (41) iscarried out right after the start of the cooling operation. Therefore,the image data would be possibly acquired under the mists inside thecasing (25) as in the day before.

On the contrary, if the waiting time is 23 hours, the image capturing ofthe camera (41) will be performed at 8:00 AM. At this time, the coolingoperation of the air conditioner (10) have not been carried out yet, sothat it is expected that the image data can be acquired without themists.

The determiner (55) determines the output image data on the basis ofeach degree of fogging of a plurality pieces of image data stored in thestorage (52). With this configuration, it is possible to determine, asthe output image data, the piece of the image data with the lowestdegree of fogging from among the plurality of pieces of image data.

The determiner (55) determines the output image data on the basis of thenumber of times of image capturing (n) performed by the camera (41) andeach degree of fogging of the plurality of pieces of image data. Theconfiguration in which the number of times of image capturing (n) istaken into consideration makes it possible to reduce such cases that thenumber of times of image capturing (n) is excessively increased, addingto the volume of communication data.

If the number of times of image capturing (n) is 2 times or more, andthe plurality of pieces of image data includes a piece of image datawith the second lowest degree of fogging (i.e., image data whose degreeof fogging is level 1), the determiner (55) determines, as the outputimage data, the image data with the second lowest degree of fogging.This makes it possible to determine, as the output image data, arelatively clear piece of image data, while reducing such cases that thenumber of times of image capturing (n) is excessively increased.

The notifier (57) is configured to output a signal for notifying ofabnormality, if the number of times of image capturing (n) performed bythe camera (41) exceeds a predetermined number of times. If the numberof times of image capturing (n) exceeds such a predetermined number oftimes, there is a high possibility that normal image capturing has beenfailed due to some abnormality. Examples of such abnormality includes(1) the normal acquisition of the image data cannot be performed due toerroneous posture of the camera (41) such as being installed at a wrongangle, (2) the air conditioner (10) is installed in such a poorenvironment in which intake air contains a great amount of moisture.With the configuration in which the notifier (57) notifies ofabnormality, the operator can be promptly notified of such abnormality.

If the number of times of image capturing (n) performed by the camera(41) exceeds such a predetermined number of times, the instructor (56)does not output the first instruction. This configuration makes itpossible to avoid wastefully acquiring the image data under thesituation with some abnormality.

The estimator (54) includes an estimation model (M) for estimating thedegree of fogging of the image data through the machine learning. Thisallows to establish highly accurate estimation of the degree of foggingthat would be caused due to fogging inside the casing (25).

Second Embodiment

An air conditioner (10) of a second embodiment has an indoor unit (20)configured to treat outdoor air. The indoor unit (20) takes outdoor air(OA) in and adjusts the temperature and humidity of the air taken in.The air whose temperature and humidity have been adjusted is supplied tothe indoor space as supply air (SA). The indoor unit (20) takes room air(RA) in and discharges the air taken in to the outdoor space.

The indoor unit (20) illustrated in FIG. 9 is installed in a spacebehind the ceiling. The indoor unit (20) includes a casing (25), an airsupply fan (71), an exhaust fan (not shown), an indoor heat exchanger(22), a total heat exchanger (72), a humidifier (73), a tank (74), and atray (26).

The casing (25) has a shape of a rectangular parallelepiped hollow box.The casing (25) has a right-side panel (25 b), where an air supply port(75) and an indoor air port (not shown) are provided. The casing (25)has a left-side panel (25 c), where an outside air port (76) and anexhaust port (not shown) are provided. An air supply passage (30A),which is an air flow path, is provided in the casing (25). The airsupply passage (30A) extends from the outside air port (76) to the airsupply port (75). An exhaust passage (30B) is provided in the casing(25). The exhaust passage (30B) extends from the indoor air port to theexhaust port.

The air supply fan (71) transfers air in the air supply passage (30A).The air supply fan (71) corresponds to the fan of the presentdisclosure. The exhaust fan transfers air in the exhaust passage (30B).

The indoor heat exchanger (22) is disposed in the air supply passage(30A). The indoor heat exchanger (22) is connected to a refrigerantcircuit (R) similar to the refrigerant circuit (R) of the firstembodiment. The indoor heat exchanger (22) is an air heat exchanger thatallows heat exchange between the air and the refrigerant. The indoorheat exchanger (22) serves as an evaporator in a cooling operation andas a condenser (radiator) in a heating operation.

The total heat exchanger (72) allows heat exchange between the sensibleheat and latent heat of air flowing in the air supply passage (30A) andthe sensible heat and latent heat of air flowing in the exhaust passage(30B).

The humidifier (73) is disposed in the air supply passage (30A). Thehumidifier (73) has a humidifying element (73 a) as a hygroscopicmember. Water is supplied to the humidifying element (73 a) from thetank (74). Moisture of the humidifying element (73 a) is given to airwhile the air passes through the humidifier (73).

In the second embodiment, the camera (41) of the imaging unit (40) isdisposed in the air supply passage (30A). The lens (42) of the camera(41) is directed to the humidifying element (73 a) and the tray (26).The imaging target (T) of the camera (41) includes the humidifyingelement (73 a) and the tray (26). The image data captured by the camera(41) is output to a communication terminal (60) via a server (50).

Mists would be generated in the casing (25) in the second embodiment aswell. An air treatment system (1) of the second embodiment includes theimaging unit (40) and a server (50), which are similar to those in thefirst embodiment. An estimator (54) of the server (50) estimates thedegree of fogging of image data. The determiner (55) determines outputimage data on the basis of the degree of fogging of the image data.Thus, the second embodiment also can reduce such cases that unclearimage data is output.

Third Embodiment

An air conditioner (10) according to a third embodiment includes aceiling hanging-type or ceiling embedded-type indoor unit (20).

As illustrated in FIG. 10 , the indoor unit (20) includes a casing (25)installed in a ceiling cavity. The casing (25) includes a casing body(80) and a panel (81). The casing body (80) has a rectangularparallelepiped box-like shape with its lower side open. The panel (81)is removably attached to an opening side of the casing body (80). Thepanel (81) includes a rectangular frame-shaped panel body (81 a) and anintake grille (81 b) provided at the center of the panel body (81 a).

One intake port (28) is formed in the center of the panel body (81 a).The intake grille (81 b) is attached to the intake port (28). Four sideedge portions of the panel body (81 a) each have a blow-out port (29).The blow-out ports (29) extend along the respective four side edges. Aflap (82) is provided in each of the blow-out ports (29). An air flowpath (30) is provided in the casing (25), the air flow path (30)extending from the intake port (28) to the blow-out port (29).

A bell mouth (83), an indoor fan (23), an indoor heat exchanger (22),and a tray (26) are provided in the casing body (80). The bell mouth(83) and the indoor fan (23) are disposed above the intake grille (81b). The indoor heat exchanger (22) is disposed in the air flow path (30)so as to surround the indoor fan (23). The indoor heat exchanger (22) isa fin-and-tube heat exchanger. The tray (26) is disposed below theindoor heat exchanger (22) in the air flow path (30).

The camera (41) of the third embodiment is disposed in the air flow path(30). The lens (42) of the camera (41) is directed to the bottom of thetray (26). The imaging target (T) is the tray (26).

Mists would be generated in the casing (25) in the third embodiment aswell. An air treatment system (1) of the third embodiment includes theimaging unit (40) and a server (50), which are similar to those in thefirst embodiment. An estimator (54) of the server (50) estimates thedegree of fogging of image data. The determiner (55) determines outputimage data on the basis of the degree of fogging of the image data.Thus, the third embodiment also can reduce such cases that unclear imagedata is output.

Variations of Embodiments

The foregoing embodiments may be modified as follows.Computer-installable Programs according to these variations describedbelow are configured to cause a computer to execute the processes of theestimator (54) and the determiner (55) according to the variation. Thisallows to realize an image processing device and an image processingmethod of the present disclosure.

<First Variation>

An instructor (56) of a server (50) is different from that in the firstembodiment. The instructor (56) of the first variation is configuredsuch that, if the degree of fogging of the image data estimated in theestimator (54) is higher than a predetermined level, the instructor (56)outputs a second instruction before outputting the first instruction.The second instruction is an instruction for instructing the airtreatment device (10) to activate the fan (23, 71) or to operate the fan(23, 71) at a greater air rate.

In the first variation, the server (50) and the air-conditioning controlunit (35) can communicate with each other.

As illustrated in FIG. 11 , if any of Step ST37, Step ST38, and StepST39 is met, the process proceeds to Step ST44. At Step ST44, theinstructor (56) outputs the second instruction. The second instructionis transmitted from the server (50) to the air-conditioning control unit(35) via the Internet (N). The second instruction may be transmitted tothe air-conditioning control unit (35) via the imaging unit (40).

The air-conditioning control unit (35), which has received the secondinstruction, controls the fan (23, 71). More specifically, if the fan(23, 71) is not in action, the air-conditioning control unit (35)activates the fan (23, 71). If the fan (23, 71) is in action, theair-conditioning control unit (35) increases the number of rotations ofthe fan (23, 71). These controls increase the air flow through the airflow path (30) in the casing (25), thereby facilitating a promptdischarge of the fogging inside the casing (25) to the outside. The fanherein corresponds to the indoor fan (23) in the first and thirdembodiments. The fan herein corresponds to the air supply fan (71) inthe second embodiment.

The instructor (56) outputs the first instruction after the output ofthe second instruction. The imaging unit (40), which has received thefirst instruction, causes the camera (41) to capture an image of theimaging target (T) thereby to acquire the image data, as describedabove. At this timing, the increase of the airflow caused by the fan(23, 71) has thinned the fogging around the imaging target (T). This canlower the degree of fogging of the image data to be transmitted to theserver (50) next.

In order to sufficiently attain the advantageous effect brought by thecontrol of fan (23, 71), it is preferable that the imaging target (T) bein the air flow path (30). In addition, it is preferable that theimaging device (41) be disposed in the air flow path (30).

<Second Variation>

In the foregoing embodiments, the server (50) corresponds to the imageprocessing device of the present disclosure. However, in a secondvariation illustrated in FIG. 12 , an imaging control unit (45)corresponds to the image processing device of the present disclosure. Anair treatment system (1) of the second variation includes airconditioner (10) and an imaging unit (40). The imaging control unit (45)of the imaging unit (40) includes, as functional elements, an estimator(54), a determiner (55), an instructor (56), and a notifier (57), whichare similar to those in the foregoing embodiments. The imaging controlunit (45) includes a storage (52) for storing therein the image dataacquired by the camera (41).

The storage (52) includes at least one of a secure digital (SD) memorycard, a universal serial bus (USB) flash memory, a hard disk drive(HDD), a random access memory (RAM), and a solid state drive (SSD).

The imaging control unit (45) is configured such that the estimator (54)estimates the degree of fogging of image data as in the foregoingembodiments. The determiner (55) determines the output image data on thebasis of the degree of fogging estimated. The output image data istransmitted to the communication terminal (60) via the Internet (N). Theoutput image data may be transmitted to the communication terminal (60)via the server (50). The output image data may be transmitted to thecommunication terminal (60) via the other wireless communication thanthe methods described above, or via wired communication.

<Third Variation>

An air treatment system (1) of a third variation is configured such thata server (50) includes an estimator (54) and a determiner (55), as inthe first embodiment illustrated in FIG. 1 . The third variation isdifferent from the first embodiment in terms of the control operationsof the imaging unit (40) and the server (50).

The imaging device (41) of the imaging unit (40) captures an image ofthe imaging target (T) every predetermined period ΔT, which is preset.The imaging device (41) repeats the image capturing of the imagingtarget (T) by the number of times Nset, which is preset. It ispreferable that the predetermined period ΔT be 5 min or longer, but notlonger than 23 hours. The number of times Nset is set to two times ormore.

The predetermined period ΔT and Nset are set values, that may be changedas appropriate by the operator or the like. The predetermined period ΔTmay be inconstant, so that the predetermined period ΔT is differentlyset in length of time for different time of the image capturing of theimaging device (41).

If the Nset is 3 times and the predetermined period ΔT for all times ofthe image capturing of the imaging device (41) are 6 hours constantly,the imaging device (41) performs the image capturing of the imagingtarget (T), for example, at 6:00 AM, 12:00 AM, and 6:00 PM. The imagedata acquired by the imaging unit (40) is output to the server (50) viathe Internet (N). The storage (52) of the server (50) stores a pluralityof pieces (in this example, three pieces) of image data therein.

The estimator (54) of the server (50) estimates each degree of foggingof the plurality of pieces of image data stored in the storage (52). Inother words, the estimator (54) estimates each degree of fogging of theplurality of pieces of image data acquired through the image capturingof the imaging target (T) performed every predetermined period ΔT. Thedeterminer (55) determines, as the output image data, the piece of imagedata with the lowest degree of fogging from among the plurality ofpieces of image data.

As described above, the imaging device (41) captures an image of theimaging target (T) every predetermined period ΔT. In this example, theimaging device (41) performs the image capturing of the imaging target(T) every 6 hours. Therefore, it is highly possible that the pluralityof pieces of image data acquired include a piece of image data with adegree of fogging equal to or lower than the predetermined level (forexample, level 1). Accordingly, by determining as the output image datathe piece of image data with the lowest degree of fogging from among theplurality of pieces of image data, it is possible to selectively outputa piece of image data with a low degree of fogging.

<Fourth Variation>

An air treatment system (1) of a fourth variation is configured suchthat an imaging unit (40) includes an estimator (54) and a determiner(55), as in the second variation illustrated in FIG. 12 . In the fourthvariation, the imaging unit (40) performs control operation similar tothat in the third variation.

The imaging device (41) of the imaging unit (40) captures an image ofthe imaging target (T) every predetermined period ΔT, which is preset.The imaging device (41) repeats the image capturing of the imagingtarget (T) by the number of times Nset. The storage (52) of the imagingunit (40) stores therein such a plurality of pieces of image data.

The estimator (54) of the imaging unit (40) estimates each degree offogging of the plurality of pieces of image data stored in the storage(52). In other words, the estimator (54) estimates each degree offogging of the plurality of pieces of image data acquired by the imagecapturing of the imaging target (T) performed every predetermined periodΔT. The determiner (55) determines, as the output image data, a piece ofimage data with the lowest degree of fogging from among the plurality ofpieces of image data.

The fourth variation also can output image data with a low degree offogging as in the third variation.

Other Embodiments

The embodiments and variations described above may be modified as belowwithin applicable scopes.

The imaging target (T) may be a component disposed in the casing (25) ormay be a component disposed outside the casing (25). Examples of theimaging target (T) disposed in the casing (25) include a drain pump anda float switch arranged in the tray (26), an air heat exchanger (theindoor heat exchanger (22)), the total heat exchanger (72), the fan (23,71), a filter for catching dust in the air, and so on.

The imaging device (41) may be provided in the outdoor unit (11). Inthis case, components in the outdoor unit (11) are the imaging targets(T) of the imaging device (41).

The imaging device is not limited to the camera (41) and may be anoptical sensor, for example.

The image data to be acquired by the imaging device (41) is not limitedto static images and may be moving images.

The air treatment device may be another device as long as the device hasa casing through which air flows. The air treatment device may be ahumidity controller, a ventilator, or an air cleaner. The humiditycontrol apparatus controls the humidity of the air in the target space.The ventilator is configured to ventilate a target space. The aircleaner purifies air in the target space.

While the embodiments and variations thereof have been described above,it will be understood that various changes in form and details may bemade without departing from the spirit and scope of the claims. Theembodiments, the variations, and the other embodiments may be combinedand replaced with each other without deteriorating intended functions ofthe present disclosure.

The ordinal numbers such as “first,” “second,” “third,” . . . ,described above are used to distinguish the terms to which theseexpressions are given, and do not limit the number and order of theterms.

INDUSTRIAL APPLICABILITY

The present disclosure is usefully applicable to an image processingdevice, an air treatment system, an image processing program, and animage processing method.

EXPLANATION OF CHARACTERS

-   -   10 Air Conditioner (Air Treatment Device)    -   23 Indoor Fan (Fan)    -   25 Casing    -   26 Tray (Imaging Target)    -   27 Pump (Imaging Target)    -   41 Camera (Imaging Device)    -   45 Image Processing Device    -   50 Server (Image Processing Device)    -   52 Storage    -   54 Estimator    -   55 Determiner    -   56 Instructor    -   57 Notifier    -   71 Air Supply Fan (Fan)    -   73 a Humidifying Element (Imaging Target)    -   T Imaging Target

The invention claimed is:
 1. An image processing device, comprising: anestimator configured to estimate a degree of fogging of image data onthe basis of the image data, the image data having been acquired by animaging device capturing an image of an imaging target disposed in acasing of an air treatment device; and a determiner configured todetermine output image data on the basis of the degree of fogging of theimage data estimated by the estimator, the output image data being imagedata to be output, the degree of fogging being indicative of how muchthe image data is fogged up due to mists generated in the casing.
 2. Animage processing device of claim 1, wherein, comprising: an estimatorconfigured to estimate a degree of fogging of image data on the basis ofthe image data, the image data having been acquired by an imaging devicecapturing an image of an imaging target disposed in a casing of an airtreatment device; a determiner configured to determine output image dataon the basis of the degree of fogging of the image data estimated by theestimator, the output image data being image data to be output; and aninstructor configured to output a first instruction if the degree offogging of the image data estimated by the estimator is higher than apredetermined level, the first instruction instructing the imagingdevice to capture an image of the imaging target, if the degree offogging of the image data estimated by the estimator is higher than thepredetermined level, the instructor outputs a second instruction beforethe first instruction, the second instruction instructing the airtreatment device to activate a fan or to operate the fan at a greaterair rate.
 3. An image processing device of claim 1, wherein, comprising:an estimator configured to estimate a degree of fogging of image data onthe basis of the image data, the image data having been acquired by animaging device capturing an image of an imaging target disposed in acasing of an air treatment device; a determiner configured to determineoutput image data on the basis of the degree of fogging of the imagedata estimated by the estimator, the output image data being image datato be output; an instructor configured to output a first instruction ifthe degree of fogging of the image data estimated by the estimator ishigher than a predetermined level, the first instruction instructing theimaging device to capture an image of the imaging target; and a storageconfigured to store therein the image data acquired by the imagingdevice, wherein the determiner determines the output image data on thebasis of each degree of fogging of a plurality of pieces of image datastored in the storage, and the determiner determines the output imagedata on the basis of the number of times of image capturing performed bythe imaging device and each degree of fogging of the plurality of piecesof image data.
 4. The image processing device of claim 1, wherein thedeterminer determines, as the output image data, a piece of image datawith a degree of fogging equal to or lower than a predetermined level.5. The image processing device of claim 1, wherein the degree of foggingof the image data estimated by the estimator is three- or more leveled,and the determiner determines, as the output image data, a piece ofimage data whose degree of fogging is the lowest level.
 6. The imageprocessing device of claim 1, further comprising: an instructorconfigured to output a first instruction if the degree of fogging of theimage data estimated by the is higher than a predetermined level, thefirst instruction instructing the imaging device to capture an image ofthe imaging target.
 7. The image processing device of claim 2, whereinif the degree of fogging of the image data estimated by the estimator ishigher than the predetermined level, the instructor outputs the firstinstruction after a predetermined period has elapsed.
 8. The imageprocessing device of claim 7, wherein the predetermined period is 5 minor longer, but not longer than 23 hours.
 9. The image processing deviceof claim 2, further comprising: a storage configured to store thereinthe image data acquired by the imaging device, wherein the determinerdetermines the output image data on the basis of each degree of foggingof a plurality of pieces of image data stored in the storage.
 10. Theimage processing device of claim 2, further comprising: a notifierconfigured to notify of abnormality if the number of times of imagecapturing performed by the imaging device exceeds a predetermined numberof times.
 11. The image processing device of claim 1, wherein theestimator estimates each degree of fogging of the plurality of pieces ofimage data acquired by the imaging device capturing an image of theimaging target every predetermined period, and the determinerdetermines, as the output image data, a piece of image data with thelowest degree of fogging from among the plurality of pieces of imagedata.
 12. The image processing device of claim 1, wherein the estimatorincludes an estimation model, which has machine-learned to be capable ofestimating the degree of fogging of the image data.
 13. An air treatmentsystem, comprising: an air treatment device including a casing and animaging target; the imaging device; and an image processing device ofclaim 1, comprising: an estimator configured to estimate a degree offogging of image data on the basis of the image data, the image datahaving been acquired by an imaging device capturing an image of animaging target disposed in a casing of an air treatment device; and adeterminer configured to determine output image data on the basis of thedegree of fogging of the image data estimated by the estimator, theoutput image data being image data to be output, the degree of foggingbeing indicative of how much the image data is fogged up due to mistsgenerated in the casing.
 14. The air treatment system of claim 13,further comprising: a heat exchanger provided in an air flow path andconfigured to cool air, the imaging device being provided in a spacelateral to the heat exchanger in the air flow path, or in a space in anupstream of the heat exchanger in the air flow path.
 15. Anon-transitory computer readable medium storing an image processingprogram for causing a computer to execute: estimating a degree offogging of image data on the basis of the image data, the image datahaving been acquired by an imaging device capturing an image of animaging target in a casing of an air treatment device; and determiningoutput image data on the basis of the degree of fogging of the imagedata estimated, the output image data being image data to be output, thedegree of fogging being indicative of how much the image data is foggedup due to mists generated in the casing.
 16. An image processing method,comprising: estimating a degree of fogging of image data on the basis ofthe image data, the image data having been acquired by an imaging devicecapturing an image of an imaging target in a casing of an air treatmentdevice; and determining output image data on the basis of the degree offogging of the image data estimated, the output image data being imagedata to be output, the degree of fogging being indicative of how muchthe image data is fogged up due to mists generated in the casing.